Since 1949 the Jasper Lions Club has developed and sponsored an Independence Day Celebration for the citizens of Pickens County. Lion Tony Pishnery is chairing the 2011 Celebration Committee and the theme this year is America, Free and Proud. Articles in the Progress issues of June 2 and 16 carried details of the 2011 Independence Day Celebration to be held here on July 4.

Time to remind those desiring to be part of the Celebration parade to get applications in. Applications must be submitted no later than Friday, July 1. They can be obtained at the Chamber of Commerce, Moore Furniture Company on Main Street or on www.jasperlions. com

Entry fee for the parade will be $10 and prizes will $50 for 1st place float and $25 for 2nd place float. Prizes will be awarded at the bandstand during the opening ceremonies and winners must claim their prizes at that time.

Previous articles have included details of activities at Lee Newton Park on the 4th and next week’s article will include a final wrap-up of the activities.

An Independence Day Celebration would not be complete without fireworks. This 2011 Celebration will end with a spectacular fireworks display that will get underway at 10 on the 4th. Many thanks to Renasant Bank in Jasper for sponsoring them this year! Fireworks technical support will be provided by Donnie Craig, Pickens County Sheriff’s Office.

Peachtree Rides Carnival attractions will be at the park from Wednesday, June 29, through Monday, July 4. Openings will be Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 5; Saturday and Sunday at 1; and at 11 a.m. on Monday, the 4th. “Armband” (cost $20) nights will be June 29 and 30; July 1 and 3. No armbands on the July 2 or 4.

So, make plans for you and your family and friends to be here in Jasper with us during the 2011 Independence Day Celebration.